How Can You Challenge Evidence in a St. Augustine Criminal Case?

What Should I Do If I Am Charged With a Crime?

If you have been charged with a crime, your life has been irreversibly changed. What might have been a momentary decision has set off a chain reaction of frightening, confusing, and uncertain events.

In Florida, you have options. Shoemaker Law knows how the system works. We have a track record of success and understand the upheaval you and your loved one are facing. A criminal conviction impacts you and your entire family emotionally and financially. It is our job to mitigate those damages. Let our compassionate and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers be there to help you as you tread this path. Call Shoemaker Law for a free consultation. 904-736-3387.

What Are Some Differences Between Florida Criminal Laws and Other Jurisdictions?

Florida is a unique state. Our complex legal system has laws that differ from those in the country. For those facing criminal charges, this can impact their defense. 

• Florida has a Stand Your Ground Law. The Stand Your Ground Law allows individuals to use deadly force to defend themselves or their property if they believe they are in mortal danger. The law is highly controversial and has faced challenges in court and society
• Florida has mandatory minimum sentences that judges must follow for certain types of infractions, including drug and weapons offenses.
• Florida has a Three Strikes Law that means a mandatory life sentence after two convictions of certain serious felonies
• Florida does not tolerate DUIs. We have some of the strictest DUI laws in the country that include high fines and possible jail time
• Florida also has harsh punishment for Drug trafficking and distribution.   

What is a Plea Bargain?

A plea bargain is a negotiation to reach an agreement between the prosecution and defense to settle a criminal case. In a plea bargain, the accused pleads guilty to some or all charges but only in exchange for concessions. In Florida criminal cases, the penalties are complex depending upon the charges and aggravating features. Theft charges become felonies if the property’s value is over $750.

Why Do Most Criminal Cases End in Plea Bargains?

Criminal cases are complex, and there are many reasons why the majority don’t end up going to trial. 

• A significant reason is that court resources are limited. As such, prosecutors will not take low-stakes criminal cases to trial, straining resources they don’t have. 
• Reaching an out-of-court agreement also saves time and money for the defendant and the court system. Criminal trials are hugely expensive and complex processes with many moving parts that require time and resources. If an agreement can be reached and all of the drama avoided, so much the better. 
• Many defendants understand that they will receive a much harsher punishment for their crimes if they take their chance at trial rather than accept a plea.

Negotiation works better for both sides; however, consulting with a criminal defense lawyer is always advisable when charged with a crime. Shoemaker Law is here for you. Our criminal defense lawyer understands the uncertainty you face and has the skill to guide you through the plea bargain process step by step and determine the best strategy for your case. Call Shoemaker Law for a free consultation: 904-736-3387. Your future is worth fighting for. 

Can I Arrange a Plea Bargain Myself?

The prosecution may offer you a plea before you have engaged counsel to represent you. Still, having an attorney review any deal is in your best interest before you accept the offer. There are several reasons for this. A trained attorney can help you in ways you may not initially realize. For example: 

• A lawyer will be able to explain your legal options, which the prosecution may not make clear because it is not in their interest to do so. 
• A lawyer will ensure that you fully comprehend all the possible consequences of accepting a plea bargain, including all the potential impacts that might arise. 
• A lawyer will have the training to analyze whether or not the deal you are being offered is in your best interest, and they will provide strategies to help you optimize your legal options. 
• Your legal team will fight to get you the best legal offer possible, which may include more lenient sentencing and less severe charges. You will not have the clout to do this on your own. 

What is the Difference Between a Guilty Plea and a No-Contest Plea?

In most cases, when a defendant enters a plea bargain, they must plead guilty and admit in court that they violated the law. When a no-contest or nolo-contendere plea is entered, the defendant indicates that they don’t dispute the charges against them but are not admitting any outright guilt to the crime.

This is a significant difference. Defendants may enter no-contest pleas if they worry that evidence at trial will lead to conviction and don’t want to take the chance of harsher punishment. No-contest pleas are a way out.

When Should I Ask for Help From a Criminal Attorney?

Criminal charges are serious, life-altering events that affect not only you but also the lives of your family and loved ones. Having an experienced criminal lawyer from Shoemaker Law on your team will help you feel more confident that you have made the right choices and fought for your best interests throughout the battle. Call us for a consultation at 904-736-3387.